Time to act

Lane Adkins

01/12/2004

The journey to find the next head coach of the Chicago Bears could be coming to a quick conclusion. Team General Manager Jerry Angelo has indicated a new coach could be named within the next 24-48 hours.

However the story was similar after interviewing St. Louis Rams defensive coordinator Lovie Smith, Angelo was extremely complimentary of the remaining candidates and is said to be comfortable with both coaches.

According to league sources, Angelo rebuffed in attempts to lure college coaches Nick Saban and Jeff Tedford to the Windy City is poised to make a decision much sooner than later, especially if his selection is Grimm.

Grimm, a former player with the Washington Redskins does not have head coaching experience, but that does not appear to be a deterrent in his quest to become an NFL head coach. Additionally, Grimm is in line to become the offensive coordinator of the Pittsburgh Steelers, if current Pittsburgh offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey gains the head coaching position with the Buffalo Bills.

While the focus on the college coaches and Grimm in recent days has left Smith appearing to be an afterthought, this is furthest from the truth. According to sources within the Bears organization, Smith has been mentioned as the favorite for the Chicago opening, but Angelo has wavered in his thoughts between an offensive or defensive minded head-coaching candidate.

According to those close to the organization, implementing a strong offensive philosophy and developing the offensive line and quarterback Rex Grossman is a priority.